When it comes to comfort food, there’s something undeniably magical about gathering around the dining table with family and diving into a dish that’s both hearty and full of flavor. One of my favorites is the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini in Creamy Velveeta Asiago Sauce. It’s a dish that reminds me of Sunday dinners when the kids were still young, and the house was filled with laughter and the aroma of garlic and cheese. I remember those days vividly—setting the table while my wife prepared dessert, and the kids, with their curious eyes, sneaking a taste of whatever was simmering on the stove. This recipe is like a warm hug on a plate, bringing together the richness of a creamy sauce with the satisfying bite of tender chicken and cheesy tortellini.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfect for Family Gatherings
This dish is designed for sharing. It’s one of those meals where everyone reaches for seconds, leaving the table with full bellies and happy hearts. It brings people together, transforming an ordinary evening into a memorable occasion. The meal’s communal nature makes it ideal for family gatherings, celebrations, or just a comforting weeknight dinner.
Quick and Easy
With just 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a meal ready in no time, perfect for those busy weeknights. You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to create something that tastes like it took all day. It’s efficient without sacrificing the robust flavors we all crave.
A Flavor Explosion
The combination of garlic, Parmesan, Velveeta, and Asiago creates a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. Each bite offers a symphony of tastes that complement each other beautifully. The richness of the cheeses, combined with the savory notes of garlic and basil, makes this dish a true standout.
Comfort Food at Its Best
This dish is the epitome of comfort food, offering warmth and satisfaction with every bite. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel cozy and content, perfect for chilly nights or when you simply need a culinary hug.
Accessible Ingredients
Everything you need can be found in your local grocery store, making it both convenient and cost-effective. The ingredients are common yet come together in a way that feels special and gourmet.
The Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 oz cheese tortellini: A pasta that’s filled with a delightful cheese mixture, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips: A versatile protein that absorbs flavors beautifully and adds substance to the dish.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Used for sautéing, this oil adds a subtle richness.
- 2 tbsp butter: Adds depth and creaminess to the sauté process.
- 1 small onion, finely diced: Adds sweetness and a complex flavor when cooked.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: The star of the show, offering a robust, aromatic flavor.
- 1 tsp basil: Adds a hint of herbal freshness.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce, giving it a luscious texture.
- 1 cup broth (chicken or beef as appropriate): Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Creates a luxurious, velvety sauce.
- 6 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed: Known for its creamy texture, it melts beautifully in the sauce.
- 1 cup shredded Asiago cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the other cheeses.
- Parmesan: Used for garnish, adds a final touch of sharpness and richness.
- Chopped fresh parsley or herbs for garnish: A pop of color and freshness.
Directions
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Cook the Tortellini: Start by cooking your cheese tortellini in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain them and set aside. This step ensures the pasta remains firm yet tender, ready to absorb the creamy sauce.
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Prepare the Chicken: Season your chicken strips with salt, pepper, and a bit of basil. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until it’s browned, then transfer it to a plate. This method seals in the juices, ensuring the chicken remains tender and flavorful.
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Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion. Sauté until soft, then add the minced garlic, stirring until fragrant. This step builds the base flavor of the dish, allowing the aromatics to infuse their essence into the oil.
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Enhance with Garlic Powder: Mix in the garlic powder briefly to enhance the dish’s overall garlic profile.
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Create the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the mixture, stirring to combine. Slowly whisk in the broth and heavy cream, allowing the sauce to thicken. This forms the creamy backbone of the dish, rich and indulgent.
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Incorporate the Cheeses: Reduce the heat and add the Velveeta and Asiago, stirring until melted and smooth. This cheese blend is what gives the sauce its signature richness and depth.
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Combine the Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and let it simmer briefly, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Finish with Tortellini: Finally, toss the cooked cheese tortellini into the sauce until everything is well coated. This ensures every piece of pasta is enveloped in the creamy, cheesy goodness.
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Serve and Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or herbs for an added touch of color and freshness.
Prep time: 10 min | Cook time: 30 min | Servings: 4
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
To create this dish, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. These will help you efficiently prepare the meal, ensuring everything comes together seamlessly.
- Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing and simmering the sauce.
- Pot for boiling tortellini: Needed to cook the pasta to perfection.
- Whisk: Essential for creating a smooth, lump-free sauce.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring and incorporating ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also satisfying:
- Cheese Tortellini: Provides a delicious, cheesy base that complements the creamy sauce perfectly. Its texture is ideal for holding onto every drop of sauce.
- Chicken Breast: A lean protein that makes the meal more filling and nutritious. It absorbs the flavors of the sauce, enhancing the overall taste.
- Olive Oil and Butter: These fats are essential for sautéing and enhancing flavor, adding richness and depth.
- Onion and Garlic: Aromatics that add depth and warmth to the dish. They form the flavor foundation, contributing sweetness and spice.
- Basil and Garlic Powder: Elevate the dish with subtle herbal and savory notes, enhancing the overall complexity.
- All-Purpose Flour: Acts as a thickening agent for the sauce, ensuring it coats the pasta beautifully.
- Chicken or Beef Broth: Adds a rich, savory base to the sauce, deepening the flavor.
- Heavy Cream: Ensures the sauce is velvety and indulgent, with a smooth, luxurious texture.
- Velveeta and Asiago: Bring a creamy, cheesy flavor that ties the dish together. These cheeses melt into the sauce, creating a silky consistency.
- Parmesan: Adds a final touch of sharpness and richness, enhancing the cheese profile.
- Parsley or Herbs: Freshens up the dish with a hint of color and flavor, providing a contrast to the richness.
What to Serve With This Dish
To make your meal even more special, consider pairing this dish with complementary sides and beverages. These additions can elevate your dining experience, balancing the richness of the tortellini with lighter, refreshing elements.
Side Dishes
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the creamy tortellini. The acidity and crunch contrast the richness, cleansing the palate between bites.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last bit of that creamy sauce. Its buttery, garlicky flavor complements the dish, and the bread’s texture adds a delightful crunch.
Beverages
- Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce, cutting through the richness with its acidity.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing, non-alcoholic option that cleanses the palate and balances the meal’s richness.
Desserts
For dessert, you might want to consider something light and sweet to finish the meal on a high note. Here are a couple of suggestions:
- Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies: A timeless favorite that’s both comforting and satisfying. The sweetness and chocolatey goodness are a perfect end to the meal.
- Lemon Drizzle Cake: A light, zesty cake that refreshes the palate with its citrusy brightness, providing a sweet yet tangy conclusion.
Storage & Leftover Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (though I doubt you will!), this dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Proper storage and reheating can help maintain the dish’s quality and flavor:
- Storage: Store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. This prevents the dish from absorbing other flavors in the fridge.
- Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to restore its creamy consistency. Avoid using a microwave if possible, as it can make the chicken a bit tough. Instead, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat to preserve the texture and flavor.
- Freezing: If you’re planning to freeze, I’d suggest doing so before adding the tortellini, as pasta can sometimes become mushy when frozen and thawed. Freeze the sauce and chicken in a separate container, then add freshly cooked tortellini when ready to serve.
The Joy of Cooking and Sharing
In conclusion, the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini in Creamy Velveeta Asiago Sauce is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s about gathering loved ones around the table, reminiscing about old times, and creating new memories. Cooking and sharing this dish is a way to express love and care, bringing warmth and joy to those you cherish.
This recipe has become a staple in my home, a symbol of family togetherness and culinary delight. I hope it finds a special place in your home, bringing as much happiness and satisfaction as it has to mine.
Happy cooking, my friends, and may your kitchen always be filled with love, laughter, and the irresistible aroma of garlic and cheese.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini in Creamy Velveeta Asiago Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook cheese tortellini in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and any herbs/spices. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken until browned; transfer to a plate.
- In the same skillet, add onion and sauté until soft. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in garlic powder and cook briefly.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir to combine. Slowly whisk in broth and heavy cream until the sauce thickens.
- Reduce heat and add Velveeta, Asiago, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Return the cooked protein to the skillet and simmer briefly.
- Toss cooked cheese tortellini into the sauce until well coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or herbs.